What is “Florence First”?
Florence First is a program funded by a Community Development Block Grant and provides cost reimbursement grants to small, local businesses to stimulate economic growth in HUD-defined low- moderate-income areas. What began as a COVID-19 Pandemic Relief program has found a permanent home within our Community Development division. 

Beginnings of “Florence First”
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (2020) provided fast and direct economic assistance for American workers, families, small businesses, and industries. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 continued many of these programs by adding new phases, new allocations, and new guidance to address issues related to the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act was passed by Congress on March 25, 2020 and signed into law on March 27, 2020. The Consolidated Appropriations Act (2021) was passed by Congress on December 21, 2020 and signed into law on December 27, 2020. The “Florence First” program began as part of the CARES Act grant funding. The program provided assistance to 37 inaugural Florence First Grant Recipients. You can learn more about the dynamics of the recipients.

Interested in Applying?
Applications are received on a rolling basis and eligible applicants are funded on a “first qualified” basis pending funding availability. In other words, while we wish we had unlimited program funds, we simply do not. However, all submitted applications receive an eligibility and funding decision. Access the Florence First portal to create an account and complete the application process.